Huge UK theme park is axing entry fees – but you'll need to grab tickets fast
Theme parks have long been a go-to choice for a family day out. But they're not exactly cheap.
Even if you manage to get a discount on tickets, once you factor in travel, food, and overpriced teddies from the gift shop, a family of four is looking at spending well over £100.
However, one popular UK resort is transporting its guests back to the good old days — when you could pass through its barriers for absolutely nothing.
Drayton Manor is reviving its 1950s pricing model by scrapping its entry fees.
Guests can enjoy free entry on April 24 and 25 — but it won't be a totally free day out, instead, park-goers will use pay-as-you-go tokens to access park rides.
The Staffordshire-based theme park boasts over 50 rides and attractions, a 15-acre zoo with more than 500 animals, and an immersive Thomas the Tank Engine-themed land for the little ones.
Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here.
During the two-day deal, each ride can be enjoyed for just one to five tokens. These are available to purchase in packs of five and 10 online or from various points around the park.
For those who want to avoid counting their tokens, wristbands are also available for unlimited access to rides.
These are priced at £30 per person if purchased online in advance or £35 per person when bought on the day at the park.
The free entrance is in honour of Drayton Manor's 75th anniversary. Tickets to the theme park would usually start from £27.50 when booked online.
All guests are required to book a free ticket online before their visit and walk-up entry is not guaranteed.
The free tickets will go on sale 9am on Tuesday 22 April.
Victoria Lynn, managing director at Drayton Manor Resort, said: 'Our 75th-anniversary celebrations are in full swing, and as part of that, we want to give families the chance to discover Drayton Manor for less.
'Whether you choose to join us at the park with a picnic or browse the rides, arcade, museum and zoo for free, or go for it with a full wristband, there's plenty of fun to be had at Drayton Manor throughout the weekend and beyond.'
Drayton Manor will continue its celebrations throughout the year with 'monthly Fireworks Extravaganzas', live music and a variety of family-themed entertainment. More Trending
The theme park, which was awarded the UK's best value theme park in 2023, boasts plenty of attractions. From thrill rides, such as 'The Wave' to River Rapids and children's rides – there's plenty to explore.
It also offers a four-star hotel on site, with family rooms, executive rooms, and presidential available to book. You can also find Viking or Thomas & Friends-themed rooms.
And, the park is a big hit with visitors. One TripAdvisor reviewer, who went to the park with their three grandchildren, called it a 'thrilling day out', adding: 'Big variety of rides for all ages. We hardly queued at all… Staff are friendly and very hardworking… Definitely would recommend.'
Another guest said Drayton Manor was a 'fabulous place': 'Highly recommend. Great selection of rides and all round happy atmosphere.' And a third said their family had an 'overall amazing and joyful experience.'
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
MORE: Mejuri launches unmissable Stacking Event with up to 20% off for a limited time only
MORE: The six companies in the UK that give dads 52 weeks paid paternity leave
MORE: After decades of hair pulling, this 'fast-acting' serum helped me grow my it back
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Wales Online
28 minutes ago
- Wales Online
EU plans baggage rule change for anyone flying to Spain, France, or Greece
EU plans baggage rule change for anyone flying to Spain, France, or Greece The new EU rule would cover anyone from the UK flying to and from countries like Italy and Portugal A woman checking the size of her carry-on luggage at the airport The European Union is planning a change in the rules on carry-on bags on flights, which would cover planes flying between the UK and countries including Spain, Portugal, Greece, France and Italy. At the minute, some airlines charge passengers for each item they want to take aboard. Different airlines have different rules - meaning the size of the bag you can take aboard and how much it will cost you - is different each time. The new EU rule would set a specific size of bag you would be allowed to take on flights operated by companies like easyJet, Ryanair and Wizz Air. And the rule would stipulate that the take-on bag would be free, the airline would not be able to charge you extra to take a bag aboard the plane. The rule would change the confusion that see people being charged extra when they get to the airport for bags deemed too big, or too heavy. And people being charged for a bag by one airline but allowed to take it without additional fees by another. EU transport ministers this week proposed standardised sizing for free underseat baggage on EU airlines. It will become law if it is accepted by the European Parliament. The new rule would mean passengers are guaranteed one free personal item, measuring up to 40x30x15cm (including wheels and handles) - or which could reasonably fit under a plane seat. The rules would apply to EU-based airlines, including when they are carrying passengers from a non-EU country like the UK to an EU country and vice-versa. Article continues below 11 years ago, an EU court ruled that hand baggage should not be subject to an additional fee so long as it is a reasonable size. But the ruling did not define 'reasonable'. Currently, Ryanair allows a free carry-on bag of 40x20x25cm, while easyJet's rules for a free bag are 45x36x20 cm, including wheels and handles. The new rule would cover under-seat bags, but does not currently mention bags you put in overhead lockers. In November, five airlines in Spain were fined £150million for 'abusive practices', including charging for hand luggage. Spain's Consumer Rights Ministry said it planned to ban charging extra for carry-on luggage. Article continues below Ryanair told the BBC it fully complied with EU law. A spokesman said: "If airlines were forced to include additional carry-on bags as part of the basic fare, it would reduce choice and drive up air fares for all passengers, which would harm consumers." Industry group Airlines For Europe said charging different amounts depending on baggage "allows passengers to choose the exact services that best suits their needs". Travel consumer expert Jane Hawkes, told the BBC: "A one-size-fits-all kind of approach would make it a lot simpler for passengers."
The Herald Scotland
an hour ago
- The Herald Scotland
Visionary Glaswegian who played key role in transforming Leith dies
Died: April 2025 Terry Smith, who has died aged 78, was a leading figure in Forth Ports plc who played a key role in the regeneration of Leith and was instrumental in setting up The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust. He spent 15 years as property director at Forth Ports, during which time Leith improved beyond all recognition. Some of Edinburgh's most underused land was transformed into desirable residential property and restaurants. Ocean Terminal shopping and leisure complex was created, the new Scottish Office built and a prestigious home found for the former Royal Yacht Britannia, which has grown into a magnificent tourist attraction, often voted number 1 in the UK on Trip Advisor. Without Terry's vision, creativity and determination, Britannia would undoubtedly have gone elsewhere. Terry's sense of innovation attracted many designers to the area including the architect Terence Conran, who was responsible for designing Ocean Terminal, which commands incredible views of the port. And Ken McCulloch, creator of One Devonshire Gardens in Glasgow, renovated the former Sailors' Home into the boutique Malmaison Hotel on Tower Place along the Shore, which is complemented by Terry's carefully commissioned ornate ironworks. By driving the change in this vibrant and attractive community, Terry was even able to lure the famed MTV music awards to Leith in 2003. In his time, the company also launched Forthside, encompassing major developments at Granton Harbour, Western Harbour and Port of Leith, which together cover about 450 acres and over two miles of shoreline. Terry supported the initial bid for the establishment of the Edinburgh Trams, linking the airport, railway stations and cruise liners to the seaport, establishing the Port of Leith as the heart of the waterfront city area. He was a Fellow of the Institute of Building and served as a director of Leith Enterprise Trust, Leith Chamber of Commerce and Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. Not one to rest on his laurels, he remained on the board of trustees for the Royal Yacht Britannia for the rest of his life. The attraction's website notes 'he played a key role in the regeneration of Leith and was instrumental in setting up The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust'. The Forth Ports team, led by the former CEO of 25 years, Bob Downie, also went on to secure and renovate the Fingal, a former Northern Lighthouse Board Ship, into the award-winning luxury floating boutique hotel that can be seen today, docked not far from Britannia in Alexandra Dock. Terry was born in Kelvindale, Glasgow. His parents, Terence and Dorothy, met on shore leave from the Navy – his dad was stationed on mine sweepers in the Mediterranean and his mother was a Wren. They went on to be a builder and shorthand typist respectively. Terry had an elder brother, Hamish, who moved to Trinidad in his early twenties, married Heather and built his life and family out there. He also had two younger twin sisters; Isobel remained in Glasgow with her husband Douglas, but Maggie also travelled extensively for work with her husband Frank and their children. Read more Growing up, Terry displayed a passion for vehicles, and from an early age would cobble together bogies using old pram wheels with built-in brakes. Over the years, this tinkering, turned into a solid hobby and at age 24, his Metron car design was subject to a two-page spread in Motor Magazine. He enjoyed racing several of his creations on the hill-climbing circuit for many years. More recently he developed the unique Marcos Evolution XP, Charterhall Speedster and Unipower Evolution car designs, which were displayed and admired at the Thirlestane Festival of Motoring, among others. His practical upbringing steered him towards the College of Building and Printing in Glasgow, where Terry studied and trained to be a quantity surveyor. After applying for jobs in both the motor and construction industry, it was contractor company Gilbert-Ash that laid the pathway of his future career. He soon became head of their general works department, taking on smaller jobs which led to more lucrative assignments. It was while working on the Cameron Toll development in Edinburgh that he was spotted and approached to join Forth Ports. In 1971 Terry met Janis, who become the love of his life. By 1977 he and Janis, a primary school teacher, had welcomed their three children, Martin, Julia and Marina, all of whom have gone on to their own fulfilling careers, as film director, ceramicist and Destination Tweed Project Manager respectively. Over the years, Terry renovated and built several properties for his family. First, he converted an Old Coach House in Helensburgh, with the help of his father Terence. Then he moved on to a newbuild on an old market garden site in Edinburgh. And, keeping the Leith legacy alive, he converted one of the few remaining single-level houses, the old Gate Keeper's Office, into a home for his son Martin. Terry Smith with a propeller from the Royal Yacht Britannia (Image: Contributed) There aren't many people who didn't recognise Terry around Leith docks and his combination of practical skills, innovative thinking and approachability made him a well-liked and respected figure. At the time of his retirement Terry was congratulated by his team on his significant achievements and by the Britannia Board for his outstanding contribution and kindness. Bob Downie, founding chief executive of The Royal Yacht Britannia and Fingal Hotel, paid tribute to 'Terry's incredible vision, determination and resulting great success, for which I am extremely grateful'. Terry is survived by his wife Janis, children Martin, Julia and Marina and grandchildren Thomas and Fergus. MARINA PIPER At The Herald, we carry obituaries of notable people from the worlds of business, politics, arts and sport but sometimes we miss people who have led extraordinary lives. That's where you come in. If you know someone who deserves an obituary, please consider telling us about their lives. Contact
Daily Mirror
3 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
UK's secret exotic paradise sandwiched between two seaside towns
Botany Bay in Kent has been named the UK's most photographed beach and it's not hard to see why, whether it's the golden sands, sparkling water or the inviting rock pools Discovering such a spectacular beach with sparkling waters and golden sands in the heart of Kent is truly remarkable, especially when it feels akin to an exotic overseas hideaway. With the summer season approaching, now is the ideal time to mark 'beach day' on your calendar. One breathtaking spot is Botany Bay, which constantly earns Blue Flag recognition, guaranteeing that its cleanliness and maintenance are top-notch. At low tide, Botany Bay reveals extensive sands and invites exploration of its intriguing rock pools. The scenery here captivates with the bay framed by the quintessential white cliffs and chalk stacks, forming a photographer's dream and one of the region's most distinctive features. READ MORE: Tourists fear sinking European holiday destination will end up 'like Atlantis' You can wander over to Kingsgate Bay and Joss Bay, just be cautious of the rising tide – you wouldn't want to get stranded for six hours like someone recently did. Botany Bay is also manned by daily lifeguard patrols from May 24 to September 7, between 10am and 6pm. Dog owners will be pleased that their furry friends are allowed on the beach outside these times, from May 1 to September 30, reports the Express. An impressed visitor recently described this hidden strip between Margate and Broadstairs as a real "gem" and enjoyed long walks along the sand and cliff paths, a definite highlight of their visit. If you're planning a first trip, remember: street parking near Botany Bay is prohibited, according to Kent Live. Not to forget, Margate itself is an excellent place to explore and enjoy. Broadstairs, with its unique mix of the traditional and the modern, along with an abundance of artistic touches and playful quirks, provides a cool, contemporary haven not to be overlooked by visitors. Reaching the bay, celebrated as the UK's most photographed last February is simple, thanks to the established path from the cliff top, or the concrete pathway by the water station at the end closest to the sea. The bay's water quality has been awarded an 'excellent' stamp for swimming in 2024, keeping up the high standards seen in previous years. Through 2025, testing of the waters will occur 15 times, the first taking place on May 7 with the year's final sample to be collected no later than September 30. A traveller recently shared their approval on Tripadvisor, where Botany Bay enjoys a 4.2 out of 5-star rating based on 546 reviews, commending the beach's cleanliness and the freedom it offers for dogs. Their review enthused: "We were able to walk along to Joss Bay passing the chalk formations and arch at Kingsgate Bay. In the summer, this beach would be world-class. Cannot fault it. I heard there's a naturist, if that's your thing, area in summer at the dunes area in the Margate direction." Be sure to time your trip right, as the low tide reveals enticing rock pools and allows passage to Kingsgate Bay. The local council has issued a tip for beachcombers and explorers: "When the tide is out, Botany bay is a great location for fossil hunting and exploring rock pools. There is plenty of exposed sand to enjoy when the tide is in, but due to the bay's shape the ends are cut off at high tide." For those who relish the idea of a picturesque walk, aim to visit Botany Bay during low tide early in the day. That's when you can meander along the extensive stretches of sand, flanked by dazzling white cliffs with skylarks soaring above. Surprisingly, the history behind the name 'Botany Bay' is not tied to its plant life; it's rooted in lore. The spot was reportedly notorious as a contraband hotspot during the 1700s, leading to the capture and deportation of smugglers to Botany Bay, Australia. Though this UK version of Botany Bay doesn't boast the warm temperatures of its namesake down under, it nevertheless entices with its distinctive allure. This charming bay in Kent is the most northerly of Broadstairs' seven bays.
